Wisconsin Connections Academy Celebrates the Graduating Class of 2026
85 graduates celebrated during commencement ceremony as students from the statewide full-time online public school prepare for college, careers, military service and more
Appleton, Wis. – Wisconsin Connections Academy, a statewide, tuition-free online public school serving students in grades 4K-12, recently celebrated the Class of 2026 during its commencement ceremony at the Appleton North High School Auditorium. Graduates crossed the stage surrounded by family members, friends, educators and staff who gathered to recognize their hard work, perseverance and achievements. This year's graduating class included 85 students from communities across Wisconsin.
"Graduation is an exciting milestone that reflects years of dedication, resilience and growth," said Michelle Mueller, school leader at Wisconsin Connections Academy. "Our graduates have each followed their own path to reach this moment, and we are proud of everything they have accomplished. We look forward to seeing the impact they will make as they pursue their goals and begin the next chapter of their lives."
Wisconsin Connections Academy’s graduating Class of 2026 has a wide range of post-graduation plans. Among this year’s graduates, 35 percent plan to attend two- or four-year colleges or universities, while 28 percent plan to enter the workforce and 18 percent plan to pursue vocational training. Other graduates have plans to serve in the military, pursue performing arts pathways, or take a gap year.
Among the graduates was student speaker and Milwaukee resident Leah Serdynski. Leah has been a student at Wisconsin Connections Academy for five years and credits the school’s flexibility with helping her balance academics with a busy schedule of activities and commitments. “The schedule was flexible so I could work ahead, I could complete schoolwork on the weekends or even travel and still be on top of my school work,” she shared.
During her time at Wisconsin Connections Academy, Leah was actively involved in dance and soccer, managing rehearsals, practices and performances alongside her coursework. Outside of athletics and the arts, Leah participated in volunteer work through her dance school’s young leaders program and her church youth group, supporting teens and individuals in need.
Over the years at Wisconsin Connections Academy, Leah has built strong relationships with her teachers, noting, “They were very supportive and made it a point to get to know you not only as a student, but as a person.”
Leah plans to attend Alverno College, where she will major in psychology with a minor in neurobiology. She is an award-winning writer and speaker, served as co-president of the National Honor Society, was a member of the National Society of High School Scholars, and is also a recipient of the Alverno College Dean’s Scholarship.
These kinds of experiences are supported through Wisconsin Connections Academy’s expanded College and Career Readiness program for middle and high school students. The program blends core academic coursework with industry aligned, career-focused pathways, including IT, business, health sciences, and marketing. Students also build durable skills such as leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork, while gaining access to career exploration and industry networking opportunities that help them build confidence, make connections, and clarify their future goals.
About Wisconsin Connections Academy
Wisconsin Connections Academy is a full-time, tuition-free, online public school serving students in grades 4K-12 statewide. True to our name, we believe meaningful connections drive better academic outcomes, so we build a strong circle of support that unites students, families, and educators. We create a high-quality educational experience that helps keep students engaged in a safe learning environment. Beyond academics, our teachers focus on building fundamental life skills, partnering with families to help students learn how they learn best. Here, students gain the skills needed to thrive in the real world by becoming resourceful and resilient.
Wisconsin Connections Academy serves more than 650 students iacross the state, offering a comprehensive virtual school experience that keeps students motivated and engaged with a strong circle of support and a deep sense of belonging. The school's team of supportive and experienced educators, specially trained in online instruction, establish meaningful connections with students, helping them achieve their full potential and reach their goals. Parents and caregivers are involved in the learning journey as their child's Learning Coach, serving as their mentor and guide throughout the school day.
Virtual school is a great fit for various students and focuses on each student being unique. Wisconsin Connections Academy students are diverse and come from different backgrounds and educational histories, ranging from those who are academically ahead or struggling in a traditional school setting to those who experience health challenges or bullying.
Families interested in Wisconsin Connections Academy are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions, and discover if virtual school is right for their students.